Recently, social media posts and online articles have been circulating about a $250 cost-of-living relief payment that Canadians will receive in August 2025.
While the headline may sound promising, the truth is that there is no official CRA $250 payment scheduled this month. The federal Working Canadians Rebate of $250 was announced in late 2024 but later cancelled.
However, Canadians will still receive other legitimate benefits in August, such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). This guide breaks down what’s real, who’s eligible, payment schedules, and how to protect yourself from scams.
The Truth About the $250 Payment
In November 2024, the federal government proposed a tax-free $250 Working Canadians Rebate for eligible workers based on their 2023 income. It was intended as a one-time relief to help offset rising living costs.
However, the plan was cancelled before implementation. That means there is no $250 federal payment coming in August 2025. Any online claim that “CRA is paying $250 to all Canadians this month” is misinformation.
Payments You Can Expect in August 2025
While the $250 payment won’t happen, there are real benefit payments that eligible Canadians will receive this month.
1. Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Payment Date: August 20, 2025
- Details: A tax-free monthly payment to help families with the cost of raising children under 18.
- Eligibility: You must live with a child under 18, be their primary caregiver, be a resident of Canada, and have filed your 2024 tax return.
- Amount: Varies based on household income, number of children, and ages.
2. GST/HST Credit
- Payment Date: No August payment – this credit is issued quarterly. The last payment was in July 2025, and the next is in October 2025.
- Details: A tax-free payment to help individuals and families with modest incomes offset the cost of GST/HST.
- Eligibility: Determined automatically when you file your taxes.
3. Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR)
- Status: No payment in August – this program for individuals ended in March 2025.
- Details: Previously provided quarterly payments to offset the cost of the federal fuel charge, but now discontinued for individuals.
August 2025 Payment Schedule at a Glance
| Program / Payment | August 2025 Status | Payment Date | Who Qualifies | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Child Benefit (CCB) | Yes | Aug 20, 2025 | Parents or guardians of children under 18 | Amount based on income and 2024 tax return |
| GST/HST Credit | No (quarterly) | Next: Oct 2025 | Low/moderate-income Canadians | Issued automatically after tax filing |
| Canada Carbon Rebate (CCR) | No | — | — | Ended in March 2025 |
| $250 Cost-of-Living Relief | No | — | — | Cancelled before implementation |
How to Check Eligibility
To receive your benefits without issues:
- File your taxes every year, even if you have little or no income.
- Update personal details like your address, marital status, or number of children in your CRA account.
- Set up direct deposit to get payments faster and avoid lost or delayed cheques.
How to Avoid Scams Related to the $250 Payment
The rumour about a $250 August payment has given rise to scams. Watch out for:
- Emails or texts with links asking you to “claim” your $250 payment.
- Requests for personal banking information in exchange for releasing funds.
- Websites pretending to be the CRA but using unofficial web addresses.
How to Prepare Financially for August
Even though the $250 payment isn’t real, you can still make the most of the benefits you are receiving:
- Confirm your August CCB payment in your CRA account.
- Plan your monthly budget knowing your exact payment dates.
- Review your October GST/HST credit date and plan for expenses accordingly.
- Avoid payday loans based on expected benefits, as unexpected adjustments can reduce the amount you receive.
The idea of a $250 cost-of-living relief payment in August 2025 is appealing, but the reality is that no such payment will be issued by the CRA. The proposal was cancelled, and any online claims to the contrary are false.
What Canadians can count on this month is the Canada Child Benefit on August 20, 2025, provided they meet the eligibility requirements and have filed their taxes.
The GST/HST credit will next be paid in October, and the Canada Carbon Rebate has ended for individuals.
By verifying payment dates through official CRA channels, keeping personal details up to date, and avoiding online scams, you can protect your benefits and your finances.
This August, make the most of the support you are entitled to and avoid falling for false promises.
FAQs
Is the $250 cost-of-living relief payment real?
No. The payment was proposed in late 2024 but later cancelled. There is no official $250 CRA payment in August 2025.
What payments will I receive in August 2025?
Eligible Canadians will receive the Canada Child Benefit on August 20, 2025. There is no GST/HST payment this month.
How can I make sure my benefits aren’t delayed?
File your taxes, update your personal details in CRA My Account, and set up direct deposit for faster payments.